Viars named 2019 Keeper of The Game Award winner

FRISCO, Texas – Billy Viars has been named the 2019 Keeper of The Game Award winner, the foundation officially announced on Feb. 17. Viars, who has been an employee at Simpson Strong-Tie for the last 24 years, is a long-time volunteer for Keeper of The Game.

The Keeper of The Game Award recognizes individuals or families in and around baseball who do exceptional work serving the special needs community and embody the spirit of servant leadership. It is given in conjunction with the Mike Coolbaugh Diamond Dreams Foundation. Viars joins Jose Trevino, Tracy Metten, Jamey Newberg and Chris and Jill Davis and as winners of the prestigious award.

“Since the start of our foundation, Billy Viars has not only been a constant source of support, but an inspiration,” Keeper of The Game Founder James Vilade said. “Billy’s passion for the game of baseball is evident from the moment you meet him. His passion for others is even more evident. He has a heart as big as Texas.”

Viars, who is a resident off Prosper and native of Statesville, N.C., has served in countless leadership roles with Keeper of The Game. He organized and ran the foundation’s first Hit-A-Thon fundraiser, was instrumental in collecting, packaging and shipping baseball equipment for children affected by Hurricane Maria in Levittown, Puerto Rico, hand-delivered equipment to those in need in Panama and has overseen the auction table during the annual Keeper of The Game Movie Night.

Viars also makes Keeper of The Game logo fungo bats that are used for auctions, giveaways and gifts for supporters.

“Winning this award is special, and I am honored to receive it,” Viars said. “To me, it is special because it reminds me of all that Keeper of The Game does and all the people who make it happen. This award is a symbol of not just the game of baseball, but of sharing, the love for others and being a servant leader. To be recognized among so many incredible supporters is something I will always cherish and carry proudly.”

Viars stays involved with baseball through coaching, as well. He is currently head coach of a 12U D-BAT Elite team and works with young athletes in the Prestonwood Sports Organization. Viars also helps out with a high-school age group who gets together on Monday nights at D-BAT in Frisco for batting practice then follows with a Bible study.

Viars and his wife, Tracy, have two sons, Jordan and Joshua. They have all logged numerous hours as a family volunteering with Keeper of The Game.

“We try to share our passion for baseball with everyone, and it is something we love as a family,” Viars said. “Keeper of The Game allows us an opportunity to mix baseball, servant leadership, and fun all in one. It’s hard to beat that!”

Viars was presented his award from Keeper of The Game Executive Director Bryan Hoctor during Keeper of The Game’s second annual Movie Night on Jan. 17 at Legacy Christian Academy.